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Setting the Record Straight: Starbucks Never Requested Living Wage Exemption

We understand there is some confusion regarding a potential Starbucks kiosk at the San Jose Convention Center. We want to set the record straight on a rumor, which states that Starbucks has requested an exemption from the San Jose living wage policy. It’s particularly important for us to correct this misinformation because it is not reflective of how we do business. Starbucks never requested such an exemption with the City of San Jose. San Jose is an important market for Starbucks, and although we asked for more information about this location, we decided to pursue other opportunities in the area after reviewing the site.

Starbucks is rooted in the notion that the best way to ensure our success is to take care of our people. In fact, since the earliest days of the company, we offered stock options and health care to eligible part-time workers – a commitment which continues to this day and that most other retailers don’t offer. In addition to these important benefits, Starbucks partners (how we refer to our employees) receive a comprehensive compensation package that includes a competitive wage, eligibility for merit increases every six months, tuition reimbursement, free coffee and a 30 percent in-store discount on beverages, food and merchandise.

Our partners have, and always will be, at the heart of everything we do. More than four decades in business, we continue our commitment to be at the forefront of doing all that we can to invest in our people.